According to initial police reports from France, Mr Walton was hit by a big wave in a freak accident.

Residents were quick to pay tribute to Mr Walton - affectionately known as Yoghurt - on social media.

Speaking on The Hinckley Times Facebook site, Lisa Rees said Mr Walton was "a legend in all ways, in rugby and family too" while Clare Wayne said "Yoghurt, you were a true legend" adding "it was an honour to know you".

Alexandra Lewis said Mr Walton was "a lovely guy who will be missed" while Shelly Ensor said: "Awful news. We will remember the good times in the Three Horseshoes. Thoughts are with your family at this very sad time."

Sam Formerly Chuter Webster, who knew Mr Walton as children in Stoke Golding, said: "My thoughts are with his family, rest in peace Rob."

Mark Black said Mr Walton was "a top bloke" and Lyn Wilkin said: "A huge loss for Hinckley RFC, as he was so good with the youngsters."

Dave Wilkins said "this is terrible news" while Jeremy White said "what a great chap, and excellent rugby man".

Denise Saunt said: "I shall miss seeing your smiling face."

Alex Bennett said: "I can't comprehend this. Of all the folk in this world for this to happen to it shouldn't be Rob."

Cori MacGregor said: "My youngest son always called him 'the squirty man' because he squirted him once with a water pistol while playing with his kids at the leisure centre.

"He'd always have a nice word to say and would pretend to scare him with a 'Grr who you calling Squirty', funny cos he was so tall.